The Lange Family

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Long before the Dundee region became an internationally recognized wine destination, there were families who took risks on steep hillsides, stubborn grape varieties, and the belief that something extraordinary could grow here. For Don, Wendy, and Jesse Lange, that story is deeply personal. The Lange family’s connection to the Dundee Hills is (literally) rooted in legacy and a commitment to community from the early days of Oregon wine to the global reputation the region holds today. Their journey has always been about more than what is in the bottle. It is about stewardship, collaboration, and a shared belief in the place they call home.

Thank you, Jesse, for sharing your family’s story of vision and perseverance that continues to shape the Dundee Hills.

Read more of the Lange Family's Story

Jesse, Don and Wendy Lange

 

Wine Barrel Art

The wine barrel art that represents the Lange Family’s story is located along a walking trail in Dundee-Billick Park. The barrel was hand-painted by local artist Chris White.

 

Dundee-Billick Park
320 Southwest 5th Street, Dundee, OR 97115

The Lange Family’s Story

Answers by Jesse Lange


HOW IT STARTED

  • My folks, Don and Wendy Lange, made their way to Dundee in 1987 to craft Willamette Valley Pinot Noir, Pinot Gris, and Chardonnay. They were inspired by the wines that were already being made here, encouraged by those making those wines, and fell quickly in love with the environment and the community.

  • In a word: Rural. One stop-light town, just a couple thousand folks living here. Everybody seemingly knew, and supported, everybody. It felt small coming from Santa Barbara, CA. 

  • The challenges were substantial: We needed to continue to carve out our reputation as a world-class, wine growing region on the global stage. Nothing was given: it was earned bottle by bottle and built brick by brick. The motivation was easy: “In vino veritas”.

  • Our supporters were plentiful: The Lett's, Erath’s, Ponzi’s, Sokol-Blossers, Campbells, and many more. It was an extremely warm, collegial, talented and aligned group of people.

VISION & LEGACY

  • Our philosophy regarding winegrowing and winemaking is simple: Grow and craft wines with a commitment to sustainability, steadfast in our sense-of-place, and unwavering quality.

  • The “Rising Tide” ethic was instilled early- you weren’t just a brand per-se, you were always a part of the collective representing your hood. That went for when you spend time traveling to outside markets and when hosting guests at home. Our winery has always been a leader in the Dundee Hills Winegrowers Association, WVWA, OWB, Salud, and Oregon Pinot Camp, to name a handful.

  • Our global reputation for quality and authentic hospitality is amazing. And we continue to grow it together.

  • I think much of our story is reflective of the American Dream: Take risks, be stubborn and fight for what you believe in. Even if it’s Pinot Noir!

PLACE & CONNECTION

  • First: Always our Estate Vineyards- they are the foundation of our livelihoods and our company. They are incredibly gorgeous, with commanding views of the Willamette Valley.

    Second: Red Hills Market for me. I’ve known Michelle and Jody Kropf before they started RHM and we are close family friends. The sense of community that exists there feels like a second home to locals and visitors alike. It always has an upbeat, wonderful vibe, not to mention delicious cuisine and libations.

  • Inextricably linked to the wines we craft. Our wines are intense reflections of those elements- how rad is that? Wine is so cool, especially Pinot Noir.

REFLECTIONS

  • Living in the Dundee Hills makes you feel like its the confluence of the perfect latitude, soils, climate, and people. Simply put: it's home.

  • Too many to count. I’m always searching for the next one which is probably around the corner. :)

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